Here is proof positive that literally anybody can make a critically acclaimed film. All you need is one (1) idea, access to some source material, and a decent editor. That’s it! Couldn’t be simpler.
Welcome to the documentary Lynch/Oz where “writer”/director Alexandre O. Philippe explores whether cult film deity David Lynch has a thing for The Wizard of Oz. Short answer: yes. Long answer: I’ve just saved you from watching this film. Also, yes.
Look, I don’t really want to trash a young director who is probably overjoyed to get some attention for his work, but what “work” did he actually do here? This entire film consists of Philippe turning a camera on a D-list celebrity and saying “David Lynch and The Wizard of Oz – go!” And the celebrity talks about the machinations of David Lynch using Wizard of Oz themes or imagery David Lynch films.
It would be like me making a documentary along the lines of: Does Steven Spielberg have a thing for Nazis? Let’s ask Adam Sandler.
So, yes, David Lynch likes to promote Oz in his films. Here’s some questions that didn’t get asked that I wish had been asked:
Are the films any good? Well, it’s the portfolio of David Lynch; they rank from Blue Velvet at the top to Dune at the bottom.
Were the films made better because of David’s allegiance to The Wizard of Oz? Can’t say for sure, but I’m leaning towards “no.”
What is 
your reaction upon learning that director David Lynch put something Ozzian in a film of his? The same reaction upon learning that William Shatner had a role in Judgment at Nuremberg. Which is to say, “cool, I guess.”
Is there a lesson to be taught here? This one is answered, and it goes something like: David Lynch makes films about the tarnishing of American dreams; similarly The Wizard of Oz is a fantasy hiding a darker past. So … do you want course credit for this or something?
Lynch/Oz feels not so much like a movie as like a quality book report. You did some research. You interviewed some people. You interspersed some clips. Fantastic. You get an “A.” This, however, came out in a theater when I could have surmised the same from one decent TikTok post. And for that, well, this film is as phony as the man behind the curtain. KnowwhatI’msayin’?
David Lynch loves the Wizard of Oz
His references may well give you pause
Want to impress me?
Re-imagine what I see
Until then, I hold my applause
Not Rated, 108 Minutes
Director: Alexandre O. Philippe
Writer: Alexandre O. Philippe
Genre: Book report
Type of being most likely to enjoy this film: People who never use social media
Type of being least likely to enjoy this film: “Is there any of your own film in here?”
